PE / Private Equity
A Private Equity sale is similar to a Trade Sale, except the entity making the acquisition is an investment fund. More commonly, it may be a trade sale in which the acquiring company is backed by PE investment.
Entrepreneurs Hub provide expert support for business owners throughout the process of a PE sale. From exhaustive research to identify a list of PE firms most likely to invest, to seasoned negotiation of the final deal, we are constantly driving the process forward, advocating for you and your business at every step. Working in partnership with you from day one, our experienced team guide you in preparing for sale and positioning your business to achieve your aspirations, whether that is achieving maximum value, securing the future of your team or helping you take the business to the next level.
A Private Equity (PE) sale involves selling all or a portion of your business to a private equity firm – a type of investment company that acquires and grows businesses on behalf of investors. PE firms typically:
Invest in established, profitable businesses
Use a mix of their own capital and debt
Aim to grow the business over 3–7 years, then exit (e.g., through resale or IPO)
You can sell a majority stake (giving them control) or a minority stake (while retaining significant influence).
Key Benefits
FAQs – Private Equity
What is a Private Equity Sale
A private equity sale is when a business owner sells all or part of their company to a private equity (PE) firm – an investment firm that specialises in buying, growing, and eventually reselling businesses for a profit. For a business owner, selling to a PE firm can be an attractive option, especially if you’re looking to take some cash off the table, plan for retirement, or bring in a partner to help scale your company. PE firms often bring capital, strategic guidance, and operational expertise to help grow the business further. They typically look to hold the company for 3–7 years before selling it again, either to another investor, another company, or through a public listing.
This type of sale can provide liquidity, reduce your personal risk, and open up new growth opportunities – all while potentially allowing you to stay involved in the business if you choose.
What are the disadvantages of Private Equity?
Private Equity (PE) can offer strong returns and business improvements, but it comes with notable disadvantages, especially from the perspective of companies, employees, and sometimes the broader economy. Read more to find out the main drawbacks of private equity.
What do Private Equity Firms do?
Private Equity (PE) firms invest in companies – usually private (not publicly traded) with the goal of improving their value and eventually selling them at a profit. Read more to find out what they do in plain terms.
Is Private Equity actually worth it?
Whether private equity (PE) is “worth it” really depends on perspective, goals, and context. PE can be worth it if the goal is to grow the company quickly, restructure effectively, or provide financial returns to investors. However, it may not be worth it if the focus on short-term gains harms employees, customers, or long-term health. For further insights Read more…
How do I sell my business?
At Entrepreneurs Hub, we talk about five key areas that make the difference between success and failure when selling your business. Read more…
How much can I sell my business for?
Determining your business’s value is more than just calculating a number it’s complex with key factors, that said the basic equation is actually quite simple. Read more…
How long does it take to sell my business?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the deal and how ready the business is for sale. On average, the process takes around twelve months – sometimes less, sometimes more.
While preparing your business for sale, Entrepreneurs Hub conducts in-depth research to identify potential acquirers. You’ll have the opportunity to review and approve this list before we make any approaches. Once the business is fully prepared – often the most time-consuming step, we begin marketing it. Typically, you’ll start seeing initial interest within a few months, with follow-up meetings happening shortly after.
As these meetings progress – coordinated and facilitated by Entrepreneurs Hub, you’ll begin receiving initial offers. At this stage, we’ll help you assess the strategic fit between your business and potential buyers. When you decide to move forward with an offer, an exclusivity period begins, during which the acquirer conducts Due Diligence (DD).
The DD phase typically lasts two to three months, depending on the complexity of your business. Once complete, the sale is finalised, and you’ve successfully sold your company.